West Ham United is considering the possibility of securing a loan deal with an option to buy for Denis Zakaria, a midfielder from Juventus who previously played for Chelsea.
Representatives from West Ham met with officials from Juventus on Thursday to discuss the future of the 26-year-old player, who is no longer considered essential in Turin.
West Ham is contemplating the acquisition of a new defensive midfielder, particularly as the club is nearing the completion of the record-breaking £105 million sale of Declan Rice to Arsenal.
The proposed loan offer from West Ham may include an option to buy Zakaria for £16 million, allowing them to allocate sufficient funds to sign an additional midfielder. Among the potential targets on West Ham’s shortlist is Joao Palhinha from Fulham.
Zakaria’s time at Chelsea last season was disappointing, with only 13 appearances and six starts. However, he performed well when given the opportunity during a turbulent season at Stamford Bridge.
The Swiss international demonstrated his ability to play at the Premier League level and would be open to a return to London.
With the substantial amount of money gained from the sale of Rice, West Ham might consider investing in a striker.
Gianluca Scamacca is eager to return to Italy, and Roma is prepared to take him on loan.